Address : 3-1750 The Queensway
Etobicoke, ON M9C 5H5
Email us : info@rockbottomunderpinning.com
When thinking about a basement renovation or new home build, homeowners often come across two terms: walk-up basement and walkout basement. These two terms may sound quite similar, but functionally, they are very different types of basements with various benefits – these may all depend on the layout of your home and property, landscaping, and your own preference.
At Rock Bottom Underpinning, we have made it our life’s mission to restore misused basements into beautiful spaces for people to enjoy! Whether you are regenerating your home value, looking at rental income potential, or simply enjoying the extra living space, understanding the difference between a walk-up basement vs a walkout basement is important when deciding which option will work best for you.
Let’s discuss the differences, advantages, and considerations of both options to give you some ideas and help you decide which option best suits your home.
A walk-up basement is a below-ground space that has a staircase leading from the basement directly to the outside. The staircases are commonly enclosed or wedged into the foundation wall with a separate path from the basement to reach the backyard or side yard of the home.
Walk-up basements are quite helpful in urban and suburban environments where the full walk-up style is not possible based on the grade of the lot or vertical restrictions for the building. Walk-up style basement access is great for owners to create additional privacy for a rental unit or in-law suite or simply for a more convenient way to access outdoor space.
More privacy: Good for basement rental apartments or guest suites.
Better emergency egress: Adds an additional exit point for safety reasons.
More ventilation and natural light with appropriate window design.
Cost-effective impact: less excavation than a walkout.
A walkout basement is generally constructed into a hillside or slope, and at least one of the walls is completely above the ground, allowing for full-height windows, sliding doors, and direct access to the backyard or patio.
Walkout basements easily cross the line between a basement and a ground floor level, open up the area, and allow the basement space to feel connected to the rest of the home. For homeowners who want a lower-level living area that can be used entirely and does not feel like an actual basement, this is an excellent choice.
When it comes down to whether you want a walk-up basement vs a walkout basement, the biggest difference really boils down to the topography of the site.
Topography:
With walkout basements, the topography of the site has to be sloped enough to allow at least one side of the basement to be at or close to ground level.
Walk-up basements can be built into flat sites or even slightly sloped sites, as they are only required to take the stairwell up to the surface.
Cost:
Walkout basements generally cost more to build because of the cost of excavating, structural design (if applicable), and waterproofing.
Walk-up basements should generally cost less to build, particularly for retrofit projects or in urban infill developments.
Light and Usage:
Walkouts allow the most daylight into a basement, creating a lighter, more airy feel.
Walk-ups allow functional exits but do not ordinarily include enough daylight to feel more than a ‘basement’ unless they utilize light wells, egress windows, and other means to effectively bring light into the basement as well.
Resale Value:
While both walk-out and walk-up basements can add value for resale, walkouts generally create higher resale returns because of their appearance and usability.
When it comes to deciding on a walk-up basement vs a walkout, here are a few things to consider:
At Rock Bottom Underpinning, we’ve had the opportunity to help many homeowners throughout the Greater Toronto Area develop their basements into functional and valuable living spaces. If you are considering having a basement entrance or developing your lower level into a well-functioning suite, we will be with you every step of the way.
Our basement walkout services are tailored to your property, needs, and objectives. We’re experienced with every historical building component, including excavation, waterproofing, structural engineering, and permitting, amongst other things! Not sure if a walk-up or walkout is best for you? We provide free consultations to evaluate your lot and provide you with the right solution.
Check out our full range of basement walkout services here:
Rock Bottom Underpinning Basement Walkouts
Both walk-up and walkout basements provide benefits and value to your home. Deciding between a walk-up basement vs a walkout ultimately depends on your property layout, personal needs, and renovation objectives.
If you’re ready to maximize your basement potential, get in touch with Rock Bottom Underpinning today! Whether you’re a new build or looking to upgrade your existing basement, we will provide you with a hassle-free, safe, and beautiful basement alteration.
Get in touch today for a free estimate and consultation!
